Each year, Brave Island organises a Christmas Card Design competition, offering local creatives the chance to showcase their talents while supporting a worthy cause. The winner receives £100 and has their design sold across the Island to raise funds for charity.
This year, proceeds will go to John Cattle’s Skate Club CIC, a community organisation dedicated to promoting skateboarding and providing a safe space for young people.
Winning design
The 2024 competition winner is digital artist Paige Yarka, also known as Leotta. Her stunning design is now available for purchase at Ventnor Exchange, spreading holiday cheer while supporting a great initiative.
A versatile creative: Meet Paige Yarka
Paige, known professionally as Leotta, is a digital artist specialising in semi-realistic character art.
When she’s not creating, Paige works as a content creator for Ubisoft, a leading gaming company. She also enjoys photography, often drawing inspiration from her snapshots for future works.
“I also like to play video games, specifically Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, which I’ve worked with in the past.”
Inspiration behind the winning design
Paige’s love for Studio Ghibli films strongly influenced her competition entry. She said,
“I admire how Hayao Miyazaki brings vibrant colours and magical elements into his work.”
Other artistic inspirations include J.C. Leyendecker, Maxfield Parrish, and Raja Nandepu. Paige added,
“Their use of bold colours and compelling compositions has always resonated with me.”
Seizing the opportunity
Paige shared her motivation for entering the competition. She explained,
“I wanted to participate last year, but I didn’t have the time, so I made sure to get involved this year.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to support a cause through art, so I thought I’d give it a shot.”
Supporting local talent
Brave Island is a valued resource for young people (aged 14 to 25-years-old) on the Island, offering weekly inspiration and opportunities.
Paige said,
“I enjoy keeping up with the creative people on the Island, and the Brave Island project is usually where I go for updates.
“It’s fantastic that the project offers so many opportunities to grow and learn.”
Where to find Paige’s work
Those interested in exploring Paige’s work can visit her Instagram, or her portfolio.
This Christmas, consider purchasing some of Paige’s beautiful cards to support John Cattle’s Skate Club and celebrate the Island’s vibrant creative community.
Read the full interview on the Brave Island Blog and purchase your cards via the Ventnor Exchange website (or in person at 11 Church Street, Ventnor).
